Have you ever really thought about the lyrics to We Wish You a Merry Christmas? The carolers demand figgy pudding, and say they won’t go until they get some. Granted, it used to be a tradition for carolers to be fed when they performed at rich people’s houses, but still, that’s a little pushy, don’t you think? Since this song is said to go back to at least the 1600’s, perhaps they were either the first peaceful protestors or the first terrorists. I don’t know about you, but I’d hand over that figgy pudding, if only to placate the caroling mob.
Incidentally, that link to the lyrics also provides a list of ingredients for figgy pudding, and frankly, I can see why one would get pushy for some. It sounds delicious.
Another delightful tradition has sprung up around this song here in Seattle. The first Friday in December each year, the city closes off several downtown streets and holds the Great Figgy Pudding Caroling competition. Groups of carolers spread out down the street for your entertainment, and they each have a donation box. You vote for your favorite carolers with your dollars, and that money goes to support the Pike Market Senior Center and Food Bank. The groups that earn the most then have a sing-off on the main stage.
This event is a great Christmas tradition, and an even better fundraiser. And since the people also visit the surrounding retailers, it benefits them as well. I highly recommend this type of event for your city. It gives you a sense of community, and an opportunity to enjoy the holiday decorations and the shopping, all while raising money for a good cause. You can’t beat that.
I plan to make Figgy Pudding one of my Seattle holiday traditions. Here are some of the pictures I took at the event. (Including Santa, and snow INSIDE the mall!)
Happy Holidays, everyone.
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